Episode 40- 12 Lessons Learned in 2023

In the inaugural episode of 2024, Manal takes the opportunity for a reflective solo session, sharing insights gained from the challenges and triumphs of the past year.

Stressing the significance of retrospection, she encourages listeners to document their journeys, fostering self-compassion and growth. 

The episode unfolds with twelve valuable life lessons from 2023, ranging from being mindful of energy exchanges with others to the power of storytelling, embracing spiritual practices during trauma, and the importance of prioritizing self-care. She emphasizes the role of intentions over resolutions, shares her personal intention for the year and concludes with a heartfelt reminder of the transformative power of service and gratitude.

As the podcast enters its third year, Manal invites listeners to participate by leaving reviews and shares warm wishes for the upcoming year, expressing excitement for the shared journey ahead in 2024.

12 Lessons Learned (or Reaffirmed) in 2023 :

1. **Be Conscious of Energy Exchanges:** Recognize and manage relationships by identifying energy givers and drainers, setting boundaries, and surrounding yourself with those who uplift and support.

2. **See the World Through Stories:** Understand the profound impact of storytelling on shaping perceptions, emotions, and responses, and choose narratives that promote hope, compassion, and a sense of purpose.

3. **Turn to Spiritual Practices Amidst Trauma:** Embrace spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, or connecting with nature during ongoing trauma, finding refuge and hope in shared narratives through practices like narrative therapy.

4. **Release Self-Judgment:** Allow vulnerability and openness by sharing your truth with trusted individuals, acknowledging that self-judgment is common, and creating a soft place to land in challenging times.

5. **You Can't Please Everyone:** Accept that, despite good intentions, criticism and negativity may arise. Invest deeply in relationships with those who truly know and support you, gaining perspective and understanding.

6. **Purify Your Intentions:** Regularly assess and purify your intentions, understanding that they serve as the compass guiding your journey, influencing how you navigate life's challenges.

7. **Schedule Big Dreams and Invest in Growth:** Act on persistent thoughts and dreams, scheduling experiences, travel, and personal growth opportunities. Share these memories and experiences with others.

8. **Be Patient During Personal Growth:** Understand the importance of patience when undergoing significant personal changes, allowing yourself time and grace to evolve into the person you aspire to become.

9. **Life's 3 Choices: Accept, Change, or Leave:** Recognize that when faced with challenges, you have three choices – accept the situation, work to change it, or decide to leave. Understand that persisting in unchangeable circumstances can lead to madness.

10. **Mind Your Mental Diet:** Proactively feed your mind with positive thoughts, eliminating mindless scrolling on social media and surrounding yourself with content that elevates and empowers.

11. **Prioritize Self-Care:** Acknowledge that prioritizing your emotional, spiritual, and physical health is not selfish. Recognize that taking care of yourself enables you to be more present and supportive for others.

12. **Set Powerful Intentions:** Replace rigid resolutions with powerful intentions that guide your actions and mindset toward desired outcomes, providing clarity without limiting possibilities. Manal shares her personal intention for the year – expansion – and encourages listeners to share their intentions as well.